Investigating officer Sergeant Andy Edwards, said: “The two people in the Punto – a 31-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman – were soon pulled out by the emergency services and taken to hospital with what were thankfully only minor injuries.

“Both were in police custody within a few hours after being arrested on suspicion of stealing the car and today they were released on police bail pending further enquiries.

“To date we’ve not been able to identify the owner of the Punto - so we would be keen to hear from anyone who may be able to help us with our investigation.”

Sgt Edwards added: “The car was being driven extremely dangerously and if anyone had been standing on that pavement at the time there could’ve been much graver consequences.

“The driver clearly had no regard for public safety so it was crucial the traffic officers, who are highly trained to drive safely at speed, brought him to a stop as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call CID at Stechford on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.